He has helped to inspire children and families across Suffolk in encouraging a love of reading.

And now a Lowestoft-based author and tutor has been honoured with a national award for services to literacy in the UK.

Nigel Lungenmuss-Ward was crowned as the joint winner of the 2022 Ruth Rendell Award at a prestigious ceremony in London this evening (February 22).

Eastern Daily Press: Author Nigel Lungenmuss-Ward reading from a storytelling chair at the unveiling of the new chair at the Carlton Colville Community Garden in Lowestoft in August last year. Picture: Mick HowesAuthor Nigel Lungenmuss-Ward reading from a storytelling chair at the unveiling of the new chair at the Carlton Colville Community Garden in Lowestoft in August last year. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

With the award launched in 2016 in honour of prominent author Ruth Rendell, who championed literacy throughout her lifetime and supported the National Literacy Trust since its foundation in 1993, this was the first time in its history that a joint award was made – with the other winner being children’s author-illustrator Dapo Adeola.

Eastern Daily Press: Dapo Adeola. Picture: National Literacy TrustDapo Adeola. Picture: National Literacy Trust (Image: National Literacy Trust)

Mr Lungenmuss-Ward received the honour - which was presented in partnership by the National Literacy Trust and ALCS - at the Authors’ Licensing and Collecting Society (ALCS) awards ceremony in London.

He collected the award from poet Karl Nova at the ceremony that was attended by industry figures from the publishing, education, charity, corporate and policy sectors.

Organisers said the shortlist "was incredibly strong and both these candidates have been outstanding advocates of literacy over the past year."

As well as being a tutor, founder of That Book Guy - Tutoring Services and an author, Mr Lungenmuss-Ward also enjoys coaching football at Waveney FC, watching sport, reading books, singing and spending time with his family.

His work to promote literacy included working closely with the National Literacy Trust’s ‘Get Suffolk Reading’ hub as a Literacy Champion, inspiring families and helping parents support their children’s literacy skills.

He also used his training as a teacher to support several reading charities in working with schools, parents, and children to engage children with reading during the summer holidays.

After having his first picture book published in December 2020, he has now had five books published and illustrated by his son, Robbie.

Speaking about his win, Mr Lungenmuss-Ward said: "Being shortlisted for and ultimately winning this award for services to literacy in the UK is a true honour.

"Just to be acknowledged alongside such talented nominees is completely humbling."